Lamp system and automotive lamp

ABSTRACT

A lamp system includes a variable light distribution lamp. The variable light distribution lamp 110 irradiates a beam having a variable light intensity distribution to a road surface. A light distribution controller controls the variable light distribution lamp. In response to the start of a predetermined event, the light distribution controller draws a pattern that corresponds to the event. In response to the end of the event, the light distribution controller extinguishes the pattern.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

The present invention relates to an automotive lamp.

2. Description of the Related Art

When driving at night or through a tunnel, an automotive lamp plays animportant role in supporting safe driving. In recent years, the use ofadaptive driving beam (ADB) lamps has been advancing in order todynamically and adaptively control a light distribution pattern based onthe state of the surroundings of a vehicle. With an ADB lamp, thepresence or absence of a forward vehicle or a pedestrian in front of thevehicle is detected, and the illumination is reduced or turned off for aregion that corresponds to such a forward vehicle or pedestrian thusdetected, thereby reducing glare imparted to a driver of the forwardvehicle or a pedestrian.

Also, a technique has been proposed in which figures, characters, or thelike are drawn on a road surface for driving assistance using an ADBlight source having a high spatial resolution. At the same time, theroad surface is also illuminated by an ordinary headlamp. Accordingly,in order to allow the driver and other traffic participants to view suchfigures or characters drawn on the road surface, such a techniquerequires a sufficiently high contrast ratio. This requires ahigh-luminance light source for drawing on the road surface.

SUMMARY

A summary of several example embodiments of the disclosure follows. Thissummary is provided for the convenience of the reader to provide a basicunderstanding of such embodiments and does not wholly define the breadthof the disclosure. This summary is not an extensive overview of allcontemplated embodiments, and is intended to neither identify key orcritical elements of all embodiments nor to delineate the scope of anyor all aspects. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one ormore embodiments in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detaileddescription that is presented later. For convenience, the term “oneembodiment” may be used herein to refer to a single embodiment ormultiple embodiments of the disclosure.

(1) One embodiment of the present disclosure has been made in view ofsuch a situation. Accordingly, it is an exemplary purpose of oneembodiment of the present disclosure to provide a lamp that contributesto traffic safety.

One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a lamp system. Thelamp system includes: a variable light distribution lamp structured toirradiate a beam with a variable light intensity distribution to theroad surface; and a controller structured to control the variable lightdistribution lamp, to draw a pattern that corresponds to a predeterminedevent on the road surface in response to a start of the predeterminedevent, and to extinguish the pattern in response to an end of thepredetermined event.

The road surface drawing may be executed as an event-driven operation.With the patterns each defined for a corresponding event, such anarrangement is capable of notifying a traffic participant in thevicinity of the user's vehicle of the presence of the user's vehicle orthe intentions of the driver in an appropriate form at an appropriatetiming without troubling the driver.

Also, as the predetermined event, overtaking a leading vehicle may beemployed. Also, the variable light distribution lamp may draw a firstpattern on the road surface in front of the vehicle over a predeterminedfirst range defined with the traveling direction as the longitudinaldirection thereof with a light intensity that is brighter or dimmer thanthe low beam. This allows the leading vehicle to be notified that theuser's vehicle is overtaking.

Also, the first range may be generated such that it extends beyond thefront edge of the leading vehicle. This arrangement irradiates a firstpattern to a range that does not overlap a blind spot of the driver ofthe leading vehicle. This allows the driver of the leading vehicle to benotified in a surer manner that the user's vehicle is overtaking.

Also, as the predetermined event, the lane change may be employed. Also,the variable light distribution lamp may draw a second pattern on theroad surface in front of the vehicle such that the front edge thereofextends up to the inner side of an adjacent lane with a light intensitythat is brighter or dimmer than that of the low beam. This allows afollowing vehicle in an adjacent lane to be notified of the intention tochange lanes.

Also, as the predetermined event, entering an intersection may beemployed. Also, the variable light distribution lamp may draw a thirdpattern on the road surface in front of the vehicle such that the frontedge thereof extends up to the inner side of an intersection with alight intensity that is brighter or dimmer than that of the low beam.This allows a vehicle in the intersection area to be notified of theintention to enter the intersection.

Also, as the predetermined event, vehicle merging in traffic congestionmay be employed. Also, the variable light distribution lamp may draw afourth pattern on the road surface in front of the vehicle such that thefront edge thereof extends up to the inner side of a merging lane with alight intensity that is brighter or dimmer than that of the low beam.This allows a vehicle in the merging lane to be notified of theintention to merge.

Also, as the predetermined event, lane deviation may be employed. Also,the variable light distribution lamp may draw a fifth pattern includingat least one from among two lines that indicate the vehicle width (leftedge and the right edge) on the road surface in front of the vehiclewith a light intensity that is brighter or dimmer than that of the lowbeam. This allows the driver of the user's vehicle to be warned.

Also, as the predetermined event, approaching a leading vehicle may beemployed. Also, the variable light distribution lamp may draw a sixthpattern on the road surface between the leading vehicle and the user'svehicle with a light intensity that is brighter or dimmer than that ofthe low beam. This allows the driver of the user's vehicle to be warned.

Also, as the predetermined event, deviation from the minimum legal speedmay be employed. Also, the variable light distribution lamp may draw aseventh pattern on the road surface in front of the vehicle with a lightintensity that is brighter or dimmer than that of the low beam in orderto prompt acceleration. This allows the driver of the user's vehicle tobe warned.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an automotivelamp. The automotive lamp includes a variable light distribution lampstructured to irradiate a beam with a variable light intensitydistribution to the road surface. When overtaking a leading vehicle, thevariable light distribution lamp draws a pattern on the road surface infront of the vehicle over a predetermined range with the travelingdirection as the longitudinal direction thereof with a light intensitythat is brighter or dimmer than that of the low beam.

(2) In order to prevent collisions or minor accidents with pedestrians,it is important to allow a pedestrian to notice the vehicle in additionto the driver immediately noticing the pedestrian, so as to allow themboth to perform avoidance actions.

One embodiment of the present disclosure has been made in view of such asituation. Accordingly, it is an exemplary purpose of one embodiment ofthe present disclosure to provide an automotive lamp that contributes totraffic safety.

One embodiment of the present disclosure also relates to a lamp system.The lamp system include: a variable light distribution lamp structuredto be capable of generating a beam with a variable light intensitydistribution; and a light distribution controller structured to controlthe variable light distribution lamp. Upon detecting a pedestrian, thelight distribution controller temporarily changes the light intensity ofa part of the beam irradiated to a face of the pedestrian.

This provides the same effects as those provided by applying flashing toonly a pedestrian, thereby allowing the pedestrian to notice thepresence of the vehicle. This prompts the pedestrian to retreat awayfrom the vehicle. Furthermore, a local front-side portion of the user'svehicle flashes, thereby attracting the driver's attention. This allowsthe driver to notice the presence of the pedestrian.

The method for detecting a pedestrian is not restricted in particular.The pedestrian may be detected based on the output of a camera, LiDAR,stereo camera, ToF camera, or the like.

Upon detecting a pedestrian, the light distribution controller mayfurther draw a predetermined pattern on the road surface. In a case inwhich the pedestrian walks while looking down at the ground, thepedestrian is able to notice the pattern drawn on the road surface,thereby allowing the pedestrian to notice the presence of the vehicle.

The pattern may be drawn such that it extends toward the pedestrian orthe feet of the pedestrian from the vehicle mounting the lamp system.This allows the pedestrian to easily understand that the pattern isdrawn for the pedestrian as a notice or a warning. Furthermore, thisallows the driver of the user's vehicle to be notified of the directionof the pedestrian.

The road surface drawing may be enabled when a predetermined conditionis satisfied. The predetermined condition may be defined with thevehicle speed as a parameter. Also, the predetermined condition may bedefined with the distance up to a pedestrian as a parameter.

When multiple pedestrians are detected, a predetermined number ofpedestrians judged to involve a highest risk may be selected as anirradiation target. If the face portions are illuminated or the patternsare drawn on the road surface for all the multiple pedestrians, this hasthe potential to actually confuse the driver. In order to solve such aproblem, the number of the irradiation target persons is limited,thereby providing improved safety.

(3) Progress is being made in making automotive lamps moresophisticated. As an example, a sophisticated automotive lamp has beenproposed, configured to have a function of irradiating a light beampattern to the road surface so as to draw figures or characters.

At the same time, the road surface is also illuminated by an ordinaryheadlamp. Accordingly, in order to allow the driver and other trafficparticipants to view such figures or characters drawn on the roadsurface, such a technique requires a sufficiently high contrast ratio.This requires a high-luminance light source for drawing on the road.

Examples of light sources that can be employed to support such afunction of high-resolution drawing on the road surface include DigitalMicromirror Devices (DMDs), micro light-emitting diodes (μ-LEDs), etc.However, in some cases, it is difficult for such a single light sourcealone to provide sufficient luminance.

The present inventor has investigated an arrangement in which a pair oflight sources are arranged on the left side and the right side of thevehicle, and the beams generated by the left and right light sources aresuperimposed so as to draw figures or characters. However, the presentinventor has recognized the following problem. Description will be madebelow with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25 regarding the problem.

FIGS. 24A and 24B are diagrams showing an ideal state in which beams BMland BMr are irradiated to a road surface 900 that functions as a screenfrom left and right light sources 902 and 904. FIG. 24A is a diagramshowing the road surface 900 that functions as a screen as viewed fromthe side. FIG. 24B is a diagram showing the road surface 900 as viewedfrom above. In the following description, “figures” include characters.

In such an ideal state, a figure 906 drawn by the left beam BMl and afigure 908 drawn by the right beam BMr are completely overlaid. Thisallows a sharp figure to be presented to the driver and the trafficparticipants.

However, in many cases, such an ideal state cannot be provided duringthe actual driving of the vehicle. In actuality, the state deviates fromsuch an ideal state due to the change of the irradiation angles of theleft and right beams due to pitching or an inclination of the roadsurface. FIGS. 25A and 25B are diagrams showing a realistic state inwhich the left and right beams are irradiated to the road surface. Insuch a realistic state, a road surface 900′ that functions as a screenhas an inclination as compared with an ideal state. As a result, aposition gap occurs between the figure 906′ drawn by the left beam BMland the figure 908′ drawn by the right beam. This leads to theoccurrence of a double outline of the figure, leading to the occurrenceof a blurred figure. The occurrence of such a blurred figure drasticallyreduces the visibility to the driver and traffic participants.

One embodiment of the present disclosure has been made in order to solvesuch a problem. Accordingly it is an exemplary purpose of one embodimentof the present disclosure to provide improved visibility of figures tobe drawn on the road surface.

A lamp system according to one embodiment of the present disclosureincludes: a first variable light distribution lamp provided on thefront-left side of the vehicle, and structured to irradiate a first beamwith a variable light intensity distribution to the road surface so asto draw a first pattern; and a second variable light distribution lampprovided on the front-right side of the vehicle, and structured toirradiate a second beam with a variable light intensity distribution tothe road surface so as to draw a second pattern. The first pattern andthe second pattern respectively include a first figure and a secondfigure to be superimposed on the road surface. There is an intentionaldifference between the first figure and the second figure drawn on theroad surface in a reference state.

By applying an intentional difference to the first figure and the secondfigure beforehand, this allows the blurring that occurs in the outlinedue to the position deviation to become inconspicuous even if positiondeviation occurs in drawing the first figure and the second figure onthe road surface. This suppresses degradation of visibility.

One from among the first figure and the second figure may be drawn withan inset (outset) with respect to the other.

Also, the first figure and the second figure may be drawn with an insetamount or an offset amount in the front-rear direction that is largerthan that in the left-right direction.

Also, the first figure and the second figure may be drawn with differentbrightness levels.

Also, the first beam and the second beam may be irradiated withdifferent light intensities.

(4) In order to provide vehicles with improved added value, anincreasing number of vehicles mount a courtesy lamp. The courtesy lamphas a function of illuminating an area under a passenger's feet so as toassist the passenger in getting into or out of the vehicle, and afunction of notifying a following vehicle that the door is in the openstate.

One embodiment of the present disclosure has been made in view of such asituation. Accordingly, it is an exemplary purpose of one embodiment ofthe present disclosure to provide a lamp system that provides thevehicle with improved added value.

One embodiment of the present disclosure also relates to a lamp system.The lamp system includes: a variable light distribution lamp structuredto irradiate a beam with a variable light intensity distribution to theroad surface; a light distribution controller structured to control thevariable light distribution lamp when the vehicle mounting the lampsystem is traveling, and to draw a figure for driving assistance on theroad surface using the beam. When a person who satisfies a predeterminedcondition approaches the vehicle while the vehicle is parked, the lightdistribution controller draws a predetermined pattern on a groundsurface using the beam.

(5) Traffic participants such as pedestrians, bicycle riders, etc., areable to immediately notice the approach of the vehicle from the frontwith the headlamp as a clue. However, it is difficult for such trafficparticipants to notice the approach of the vehicle from behind even ifthe headlamp is turned on.

One embodiment of the present disclosure has been made in view of such asituation. Accordingly, it is an exemplary purpose of one embodiment ofthe present disclosure to provide a lamp that is capable of alerting thetraffic participants in front of the vehicle of the approach of thevehicle from behind.

One embodiment of the present disclosure also relates to an automotivelamp. The automotive lamp includes a variable light distribution lampstructured to irradiate a beam with a variable light intensitydistribution to the road surface. The variable light distribution lampdraws a pattern over a predetermined range in front of the vehicle withthe traveling direction as the longitudinal direction thereof with alight intensity that is brighter or dimmer than that of the low beam.

With this embodiment, before the vehicle overtakes a trafficparticipant, the pattern drawn such that it occupies a predeterminedrange on the road surface passes by the traffic participant. The patternis drawn with a light intensity that is brighter than that of the lowbeam. Accordingly, this arrangement allows a traffic participant infront of the vehicle to be warned of the approach of the vehicle frombehind.

Also, the pattern may include multiple figures arranged in the travelingdirection. With the multiple figures arranged in the travelingdirection, when the vehicle is traveling, the multiple figuressequentially pass by a traffic participant. In this state, the roadsurface in the vicinity of the traffic participant is alternatelyilluminated in the order of “bright”, “dark”, “blight”, “dark”, . . . .This allows the traffic participant to be further warned as comparedwith an arrangement configured to irradiate a uniform pattern.

Also, the pattern may be drawn as an animation of multiple figures thatslide in a direction away from the vehicle at the same speed. Thisallows a traffic participant to be notified in an intuitive manner ofthe approach of the vehicle from behind.

The multiple figures may be drawn such that they have a relative speedof 10 km/h to 165 km/h with respect to the vehicle.

Also, the multiple figures may be drawn such that they slide at a speedthat is changed according to the distance up to a traffic participant infront of the vehicle. This allows a traffic participant to obtaininformation with respect to the distance up to the vehicle based on theanimation speed. Also, the animation speed may be raised according to areduction in the distance, thereby more strongly prompting the trafficparticipant to perform an appropriate action.

Also, the pattern may be drawn when the vehicle speed is equal to orsmaller than a predetermined value. For example, the predetermined valuemay be established in a range between 20 km/h and 40 km/h.

Also, the pattern may be drawn when the vehicle is traveling on a roadhaving a width that is smaller than a predetermined value. For example,the predetermined width is designed to be 4 m.

The pattern may be drawn on the satisfaction of a condition that thevehicle is traveling on a road having a width that is smaller than apredetermined width. For example, the predetermined width is designed tobe 4 m. Also, the pattern may be drawn on the satisfaction of acondition that the vehicle is traveling on a road having no guardrail.Also, the pattern may be drawn on the satisfaction of a condition thatthe vehicle is passing an oncoming vehicle.

Also, the multiple figures may each be designed to have a width that issubstantially equal to or larger than that of the vehicle.

Also, the pattern may include two lines that indicate the vehicle width.Also, the two lines may be drawn such that lengths thereof extend in thetraveling direction with time.

Also, the pattern may include: two lines that indicate the vehiclewidth; and an animation figure drawn such that it extends in thetraveling direction with time or such that it moves in the travelingdirection with time.

It should be noted that any combination of the components describedabove or any manifestation thereof may be mutually substituted between amethod, apparatus, system, and so forth, which are also effective as oneembodiment of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, withreference to the accompanying drawings which are meant to be exemplary,not limiting, and wherein like elements are numbered alike in severalFigures, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a lamp system (or automotive lamp)according to one embodiment 1;

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a pattern drawn on a roadsurface by a variable light distribution lamp;

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a first pattern according to an example 1;

FIGS. 4A through 4D are diagrams for explaining the drawing of the firstpattern;

FIGS. 5A through 5C are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a secondpattern according to one embodiment 2;

FIGS. 6A through 6C are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a thirdpattern according to one embodiment 3;

FIGS. 7A through 7C are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a fourthpattern according to one embodiment 4;

FIGS. 8A through 8C are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a fifthpattern according to one embodiment 5;

FIGS. 9A through 9D are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a sixthpattern according to one embodiment 6;

FIGS. 10A through 10C are diagrams for explaining the drawing of aseventh pattern according to one embodiment 7;

FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the irradiation of a pattern in badweather conditions;

FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa lamp system;

FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system;

FIGS. 14A through 14F are diagrams each showing a modification of thepattern;

FIGS. 15A through 15D are diagrams for explaining an animated display ofthe pattern;

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a lamp system (or automotive lamp)according to one embodiment 2;

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining personal flashing supported by thelamp system shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the road surface drawing supportedby the lamp system shown in FIG. 16;

FIGS. 19A through 19D are diagrams for explaining an operation of thelamp system shown in FIG. 16 in a time series manner;

FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the personal flashing provided inanother traveling situation;

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining the personal flashing provided inyet another traveling situation;

FIGS. 22A and 22B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa lamp system;

FIGS. 23A and 23B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system;

FIGS. 24A and 24B are diagrams each showing a situation in which beamsare irradiated to the road surface that function as a screen by the leftand right light sources in an ideal state;

FIGS. 25A and 25B are diagrams each showing a situation in which beamsare irradiated to the road surface by the left and right light sourcesin a realistic state;

FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing a lamp system according to oneembodiment 3-1;

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a view as viewed from thedriver's seat;

FIGS. 28A and 28B are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a patternsupported by the lamp system in a reference state;

FIGS. 29A and 29B are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a patternsupported by the lamp system in a realistic state;

FIGS. 30A and 30B are diagrams for explaining a pattern includingmultiple figures;

FIGS. 31A and 31B are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a patternin a reference state according to one embodiment 3-2;

FIGS. 32A and 32B are diagrams for explaining the drawing of a patternin a realistic state according to one embodiment 3-2;

FIGS. 33A and 33B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa lamp system;

FIGS. 34A and 34B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system;

FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing a lamp system according to oneembodiment 4;

FIGS. 36A and 36B are diagrams for explaining an operation of the lampsystem shown in FIG. 35;

FIGS. 37A through 37C are diagrams for explaining the operation of thelamp system shown in FIG. 35 while the vehicle is parked;

FIGS. 38A and 38B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa lamp system;

FIGS. 39A and 39B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system;

FIG. 40 is a block diagram showing a lamp system (or automotive lamp)according to one embodiment 5;

FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an example PTN_A of a pattern PTN drawn onthe road surface by the variable light distribution lamp;

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing a pattern PTN_B drawn on the road surfaceby the lamp system;

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of the pattern PTN_B as viewedfrom above;

FIGS. 44A and 44B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa lamp system;

FIGS. 45A and 45B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system;

FIGS. 46A through 46C are diagrams each showing the pattern PTN_Baccording to a modification;

FIG. 47 is a diagram showing a pattern PTN_C according to amodification; and

FIGS. 48A through 48C are diagrams each showing a pattern PTN_Daccording to a modification.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Description will be made below regarding the present invention based onpreferred embodiments with reference to the drawings. The embodimentshave been described for exemplary purposes only, and are by no meansintended to restrict the present invention and the present disclosure.Also, it is not necessarily essential for the present invention or thepresent disclosure that all the features or a combination thereof beprovided as described in the embodiments. The same or similarcomponents, members, and processes shown in the drawings are denoted bythe same reference numerals, and redundant description thereof will beomitted as appropriate.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a lamp system (or automotive lamp) 100according to one embodiment 1. The lamp system 100 includes a variablelight distribution lamp 110, a camera 120, a light distributioncontroller 130, a low-beam lamp 102, and a high-beam lamp 104. Suchcomponents may be built into the same housing. Also, several componentsmay be provided as external components of the housing, i.e., may beprovided on the vehicle side.

In the present embodiment, the variable light distribution lamp 110 isprovided as an additional lamp separately from the low-beam lamp 102 andthe high-beam lamp 104. Accordingly, the variable light distributionlamp 110 may be referred to as an “additional beam lamp”.

The variable light distribution lamp 110 includes a white light source.The variable light distribution lamp 110 receives, from the lightdistribution controller 130, a control signal S_(CTRL) that indicates apattern PTN to be drawn on a road surface 900, and irradiates a beam BMhaving an intensity distribution 902 that corresponds to the controlsignal S_(CTRL) to the road surface 900 in front of the vehicle, so asto draw the pattern PTN on the road surface 900. The pattern PTN isformed in an irradiation area 904 provided by the beam BM.

The configuration of the variable light distribution lamp 110 is notrestricted in particular. For example, the variable light distributionlamp 110 may include a semiconductor light source such as a laser diode(LD), a light-emitting diode (LED), or the like, and a lighting circuitconfigured to drive and turn on the semiconductor light source. Thevariable light distribution lamp 110 may include a matrix-typepattern-forming device such as a digital mirror device (DMD), a liquidcrystal device, or the like. Also, the variable light distribution lamp110 may be configured as a light-emitting element array (which will bealso referred to as a “μ-LED”). The variable light distribution lamp 110may provide an irradiation area that overlaps a part of the irradiationarea provided by the low-beam lamp.

The camera 120 captures an image of a region in front of the vehicle.The light distribution controller 130 may control the pattern PTN to bedrawn by the variable light distribution lamp 110 on the road surface900 based on the image captured by the camera 120 (which will bereferred to as a “camera image IMG” hereafter).

The high-beam lamp 104 may be configured to support variable lightdistribution as with the variable light distribution lamp 110. In thiscase, the light distribution controller 130 may control the lightdistribution to be provided by the high-beam lamp 104 based on thecamera image IMG. An electronic control unit (ECU) 40 integrallycontrols the lamp system 100. Specifically, the ECU 140 generatescommands such as a turn-on command, turn-off command, etc., for thelow-beam lamp 102, the high-beam lamp 104, and the variable lightdistribution lamp 110. Furthermore, the ECU 140 transmits informationrequired for the light distribution control to the light distributioncontroller 130.

The light distribution controller 130 may be configured as a digitalprocessor. For example, the light distribution controller 130 may beconfigured as a combination of a microcontroller including a CPU and asoftware program. Also, the light distribution controller 130 may beconfigured as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), ApplicationSpecified IC (ASIC), or the like.

More specifically, when the vehicle mounting the lamp system 100 istraveling, the light distribution controller 130 controls the variablelight distribution lamp 110, so as to draw a figure on the road surfaceusing the beam BM for driving assistance. The kinds of the figures arenot restricted in particular. For example, legal speed information, roadsigns, or the like, may be drawn so as to allow the driver to easilyview such information. Also, in order to assist other drivers in drivingtheir vehicles, this arrangement may draw a figure that indicates theuser's vehicle traveling direction.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a pattern PTN (PTN_A) to bedrawn on the road surface 900 by means of the variable lightdistribution lamp 110. Various kinds and shapes of patterns PTN may beemployed according to the traveling situation. FIG. 2 shows a giventraveling situation. As the pattern PTN_A to be drawn on the roadsurface 900, a figure (character string) that indicates the speed limitmay be employed. Also, examples of such a pattern PTN may include afigure or a character string that indicates information associated witha car navigation system. The pattern PTN is drawn with an appropriatesize at a position that allows a driver 908 of a vehicle (which will bealso referred to as the “user's vehicle”) 906 mounting the lamp system100 to easily view such information.

The light distribution controller 130 controls the variable lightdistribution lamp 110. Specifically, the light distribution controller130 draws a pattern PTN_# (“#” that represents a symbol that indicatesan event, e.g., “#”=“1”, “2”, . . . , or the like) on the road surface900 in response to the start of the corresponding event EVT_# definedbeforehand. Furthermore, the light distribution controller 130 turns offthe pattern PTN_# in response to the end of the event EVT_#.

Detection/judgement of the occurrence and end of each event may besupported by the light distribution controller 130 or by the ECU 140.

By supporting the road surface drawing operation of the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 as an event-driven operation, and by defining thepattern PTN_# for each event EVT_#, this arrangement allows the presenceof the user's vehicle and the driver's intentions to be communicated tothe traffic participants in the vicinity of the vehicle in anappropriate manner and at an appropriate timing without troubling thedriver.

Description will be made below with reference to several examplesregarding typical patterns PTN_# (“#”=1, 2, . . . ) supported by thelamp system 100 according to the embodiment.

Example 1

In the example 1, a predetermined event EVT_1 is overtaking a leadingvehicle. When the overtaking event EVT_1 has occurred, the first patternPTN_1 is drawn on the road surface. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a firstpattern (overtaking notice pattern) PTN_1 according to the example 1.Description will be made below with the left-side lane in the travelingdirection as a driving lane, and with the right-side lane in thetraveling direction as an overtaking lane.

The occurrence of the overtaking event EVT_1 can be judged givingconsideration to the distance between the user's vehicle 906 and theleading vehicle 907 and the relative speed difference between them, etc.For example, when the distance between them becomes 50 m or less, andwhen the relative speed difference between them becomes 20 km/h or more,the light distribution controller 130 (or the ECU 140) may judge thatthe overtaking event has occurred.

The end of the overtaking event EVT_1 may be judged based on thedistance between the user's vehicle 906 and the leading vehicle 907.Alternatively, the end of the overtaking event EVT_1 may be judged basedon an image captured by the camera. Examples of conditions based onwhich the end of the overtaking event EVT_1 may be judged include: theleading vehicle 907 disappearing from the field of view of the camera;and the leading vehicle 907 leaving from a predetermined region of theimage captured by the camera.

The low beam can be irradiated to the road surface 900 in addition tothe beam irradiated by the variable light distribution lamp 110. Thevariable light distribution lamp 110 irradiates the first pattern PTN_1over a first range 912_1 (x₁ to x₂, y₁ to y₂) with the travelingdirection (the x-axis direction) as the longitudinal direction with alight intensity that is brighter or dimmer than that of the low beamBML. In a case in which the origin of the x axis is defined to be thefront edge of the vehicle, the first range 912_1 may be designed withx₁=1 m to 15 m and x₂=30 m to 60 m. An example may be made in which x₁=7m and x₂=45 m. As a simplest example, the first pattern PTN_1 may bedesigned as a uniform irradiation pattern. However, the presentinvention is not restricted to such an example as described later.

The first pattern PTN_1 thus drawn allows the leading vehicle 907 to benotified that the user's vehicle is overtaking. This arrangement iscapable of preventing the leading vehicle 907 from changing lanes to theovertaking lane without noticing the presence of the user's vehicle 906.

The first range 912_1 is preferably designed such that it extends infront of the front edge of the leading vehicle 907. With this, the firstpattern PTN_1 is irradiated to the road surface without involving ablind spot of the driver of the leading vehicle 907. This arrangement iscapable of notifying the leading vehicle 907 of the overtaking by theuser's vehicle in a surer manner.

FIGS. 4A through 4D are diagrams for explaining the drawing of the firstpattern PTN_1. Specifically, FIGS. 4A through 4D show overtakingsituations in a time series manner. It should be noted that, inactuality, both the vehicle 906 and the leading vehicle 907 aretraveling. However, for simplification of description, FIGS. 4A through4D show the leading vehicle 907 at the same position.

In FIG. 4A, the leading vehicle 907 is in front of the user's vehicle906. As shown in FIG. 4B, when the distance between the user's vehicle906 and the leading vehicle 907 is reduced to some extent, judgement ismade that the overtaking event EVT_1 has occurred. As a result, the lampsystem 100 of the user's vehicle 906 draws the first pattern PTN_1 onthe road surface. The first pattern PTN_1 is preferably drawn such thatit extends in front of the front edge of the leading vehicle 907 at aturn-on timing, i.e., at a timing at which judgment is made that theevent EVT_1 has occurred. For example, the first pattern PTNl mayinclude multiple (e.g., two) rectangular patterns arranged such thatthey are adjacent in the vehicle width direction and such that eachrectangular pattern extends in front of the vehicle.

The distance between the vehicle 906 and the leading vehicle 907 isreduced with time. This is an intermediate state in the overtakingevent. Accordingly, the first pattern PTN_1 is drawn.

As shown in FIG. 4D, after the user's vehicle 906 overtakes the leadingvehicle 907, judgment is made that the overtaking event EVT_1 has ended.In response to the judgment of the end of the overtaking event EVT_1,the first pattern PTN_1 is turned off.

Example 2

In an example 2, a predetermined event EVT_2 is a lane change. When thelane change event EVT_2 has occurred, a second pattern PTN_2 is drawn onthe road surface. FIGS. 5A through 5C are diagrams for explaining thedrawing of the second pattern (lane change notice pattern) PTN_2according to the example 2. FIGS. 5A through 5C show the situations ofthe lane change in a time series manner.

In FIG. 5A, the vehicle 906 travels in the lane L1. In FIG. 5B, when theoccurrence of the lane change event EVT_2 has been detected, the secondpattern PTN_2 is drawn. The second pattern PTN_2 is also irradiated tothe road surface with a light intensity that is brighter than that ofthe low beam such that its end extends up to a portion within theadjacent traffic lane L2. This allows the following vehicle 907traveling in the adjacent lane L2 to be notified of the intention tochange lanes.

For example, the second pattern PTN_2 may be designed such that itincludes multiple rectangular patterns arranged in the travelingdirection and such that each rectangular pattern extends in the vehiclewidth direction. In an example shown in FIG. 5, as the distance in frontof the user's vehicle 906 becomes longer, the rectangular pattern isdrawn with a longer length in the vehicle width direction.

The occurrence of the lane change event EVT_2 may be detected based onthe operation of a direction indicator (turning indicator).Alternatively, the occurrence of the lane change event EVT_2 may bedetected based on a combination of the operation of the directionindicator and the actual steering. As shown in FIG. 5C, when judgmenthas been made that the lane change event EVT_2 has ended, the secondpattern PTN_2 is turned off.

Example 3

In an example 3, a predetermined event EVT_3 is entry into anintersection. When the intersection entry event EVT_3 has occurred, athird pattern PTN_3 is drawn on the road surface. FIGS. 6A through 6Care diagrams for explaining the drawing of the third pattern(intersection entry notice pattern) PTN_3 according to the example 3.FIGS. 6A through 6C show the situations of the entry into theintersection in a time series manner. In this example, entry into aT-shaped intersection is shown.

In FIG. 6A, the vehicle 906 approaches an intersection CR. In FIG. 6B,when the occurrence of the intersection entry event EVT_3 has beendetected, a third pattern PTN_3 is drawn. The third pattern PTN_3 isalso irradiated to the road surface with a light intensity that isbrighter than that of the low beam. The third pattern PTN_3 is drawnsuch that its front end extends up to a portion within the intersectionCR. This allows the other vehicles 907 within the intersection to benotified of the intention to enter the intersection.

The occurrence of the intersection entry event EVT_3 may be judged basedon information received by a car navigation system. Alternatively, theoccurrence of the intersection entry event EVT_3 may be judged based onan image captured by a camera. As shown in FIG. 6C, when the end of theintersection entry event EVT_3 has been judged, the third pattern PTN_3is turned off. As a condition for judgment of the end of the eventEVT_3, a condition in which the user's vehicle actually starts to turnright (turn left) may be employed. Also, as a condition for judgment ofthe end of the event EVT_3, a condition in which the user's vehicletravels in a state in which the steering wheel is turned to the right(or left) may be employed.

Example 4

In an example 4, a predetermined event EVT_4 is merging in trafficcongestion. When the merging event EVT_4 has occurred, a fourth patternPTN_4 is drawn on the road surface. FIGS. 7A through 7C are diagrams forexplaining the drawing of the fourth pattern (merging notice pattern)PTN_4 according to the example 4. FIGS. 7A through 7C show thesituations of merging in traffic congestion in a time series manner.

In FIG. 7A, the vehicle 906 approaches a merging point. In FIG. 7B, whenthe occurrence of the merging event EVT_4 has been detected, a fourthpattern EVT_4 is drawn. The fourth pattern PTN_4 is also irradiated tothe road surface with a light intensity that is brighter than that ofthe low beam. The fourth pattern PTN_4 is drawn such that its front endextends up to the merging point within the lane L3. This allows theother vehicles 907 in the lane L3 to be notified of the intention tomerge.

The occurrence of the merging event EVT_4 may be judged based oninformation received from a car navigation system. Alternatively, theoccurrence of the merging event EVT_4 may be judged based on an imagecaptured by a camera. As shown in FIG. 7C, when the merging ends,judgment is made that the event EVT_4 has ended. In this stage, thefourth pattern PTN_4 is turned off.

Example 5

In an example 5, a predetermined event EVT_5 is “deviation from a lane”.When the lane deviation event EVT_5 has occurred, a fifth pattern PTN_5is drawn on the road surface. FIGS. 8A through 8C are diagrams forexplaining the drawing of the fifth pattern (lane deviation warningpattern) PTN_5 according to the example 5. FIGS. 8A through 8C show thesituations of the lane deviation in a time series manner.

In FIG. 8A, the vehicle 906 travels in the lane L1. In FIG. 8B, when apredictor of lane deviation has been detected, a fifth pattern PTN_5 isdrawn. As a condition for the detection of lane deviation, a conditionin which the user's vehicle 906 moves toward the adjacent lane in astate in which the operation of the direction indicator has not beendetected may be employed. The movement of the user's vehicle 906 may bedetected based on an image captured by a camera.

The fifth pattern PTN_5 is also irradiated to the road surface with alight intensity that is brighter than that of the low beam. The fifthpattern PTN_5 may indicate the vehicle width of the user's vehicle 906.The fifth pattern PTN_5 may be drawn with blinking. This allows thedriver of the user's vehicle 906 to be warned.

As shown in FIG. 8C, when the user's vehicle comes to no longer have thepotential for lane deviation, judgment is made that the event EVT_5 hasended. In this stage, the fifth pattern PTN_5 is turned off.

Example 6

In an example 6, a predetermined event EVT_6 is approaching the leadingvehicle. When the approach event EVT_6 has occurred, a sixth patternPTN_6 is drawn on the road surface. FIGS. 9A through 9D are diagrams forexplaining the drawing of the sixth pattern (approach warning pattern)PTN_6 according to the example 6. FIGS. 9A through 9C show thesituations of the approach in a time series manner. In actuality, thevehicle 906 and the leading vehicle 907 are traveling. However, forsimplification of description, the leading vehicle 907 is shown at thesame position.

In FIG. 9A, the leading vehicle 907 travels in front of the vehicle 906.However, the distance between them is sufficiently large. In FIG. 9B,when the distance between the leading vehicle 907 and the user's vehicle906 becomes smaller than a predetermined value, the sixth pattern PTN_6is drawn. This allows the driver of the user's vehicle 906 to be warned.The sixth pattern PTN_6 is preferably drawn with blinking. As acondition for judgment of the approach event EVT_6, a condition in whichthe distance between the vehicles is equal to or smaller than apredetermined value, and the speed difference between the user's vehicleand the leading vehicle is equal to or larger than a predeterminedvalue, may be employed.

The sixth pattern PTN6 may be changed according to the distance betweenthe vehicles. As shown in FIG. 9C, as the distance between the vehiclesbecomes further shortened, the sixth pattern PTN6 may be blinked. Thisallows the driver of the user's vehicle 906 to be provided with astronger warning.

As shown in FIG. 9D, when the distance between the vehicles becomeslarger than a predetermined value due to the deceleration of the user'svehicle 906 or the like, judgment is made that the approach event EVT_6has ended. In this stage, the sixth pattern PTN_6 is turned off.

Example 7

In an example 7, a predetermined event EVT_7 is a deviation from theminimum legal speed. When the vehicle speed deviation event EVT_7 hasoccurred, a seventh pattern PTN_7 is drawn on the road surface. FIG. 10Athrough 10C are diagrams for explaining the drawing of the seventhpattern (vehicle speed deviation warning pattern) PTN_7 according to theexample 7. FIGS. 10A through 10C show the situations of the vehiclespeed deviation in a time series manner.

Description will be made assuming that the minimum legal speed is 80km/h. In FIG. 10A, the vehicle 906 travels at a vehicle speed of 80km/h. In this stage, the seventh pattern PTN_7 is turned off.

In FIG. 10B, the vehicle speed of the user's vehicle 906 decreases to 60km/h or less. When the difference between the vehicle speed and theminimum legal speed exceeds a predetermined allowed value (e.g., 20 km),the seventh pattern PTN_7 is drawn. This allows the driver to be warnedeven if the driver has not noticed the deceleration of the user'svehicle. The seventh pattern PTN_7 may be designed to have a shape or toprovide an animation so as to prompt the driver to accelerate. Also, theseventh pattern PTN_7 may be designed to have a shape that indicates anuphill slope so as to indirectly prompt the driver to accelerate.

In FIG. 10C, when the difference between the vehicle speed of thevehicle 906 and the minimum legal speed becomes smaller than anallowable value, the seventh pattern PTN_7 is turned off. Descriptionhas been made in this example configured to handle the deviation fromthe minimum legal speed. Also, the same operation may be made forhandling deviation from the maximum legal speed (speed limit). In thiscase, the seventh pattern PTN_7 may be designed to have a shape or toprovide an animation so as to prompt the driver to decelerate.

Example 8

The variable light distribution lamp 110 may be used to highlight andirradiate the white line or the road shoulder in bad weather conditionssuch as rain or snowfall. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining theirradiation of a pattern PTN_8 to be used in bad weather conditions.This provides improved visibility.

Next, description will be made regarding a configuration example of thelamp system 100. FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams each showing aconfiguration example of the lamp system 100. FIG. 12A shows an examplein which the variable light distribution lamp 110 is built into aheadlamp 300A together with the low-beam lamp 102 and the high-beam lamp104.

FIG. 12B shows an example in which the variable light distribution lamp110 is built into a lamp 300B that is independent of the headlamp 230.The lamp 300B is attached to a bumper 240 arranged on a front side ofthe vehicle 200, for example.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams each showing a configuration example of acontrol system of a lamp system. The variable light distribution lamp110 includes a DMD 112, a driver 114 for the DMD 112, and a projectorlens 116. FIG. 13A shows an example in which the light distributionpattern to be provided by the variable light distribution lamp 110 isgenerated by an ECU 250 arranged on the vehicle side configured as anexternal component of the lamp 300A (300B). Accordingly, in thisexample, the functions of the light distribution controller 130 shown inFIG. 1 are supported by the ECU 250.

FIG. 13B shows an example in which the lamp 300A (300B) is provided witha lamp ECU 310. The function of the light distribution controller 130 issupported by the lamp ECU 310. The lamp ECU 310 controls the variablelight distribution lamp 110 in cooperation with the ECU 220.

Description will be made regarding modifications relating to the firstembodiment.

Modification 1

FIGS. 14A through 14F are diagrams each showing a modification of thepattern PTN_#. As shown in FIG. 14A, multiple figures that form thepattern PTN_# are not restricted to rectangles. Also, the pattern PTN_#may be designed to have other figures such as arrows, triangles,circles, etc. As shown in FIG. 14B, the PTN_# may be designed to have apattern of two inwardly inclined lines. Also, as shown in FIG. 14C, thePTN_# may be designed to have a pattern of two outwardly inclined lines.Also, as shown in FIG. 14D, the PTN_# may be designed to be a trapezoid.Also, as shown in FIG. 14E or 14F, the PTN_# may be designed to have acombination of multiple figures with different lengths.

Modification 2

The variable light distribution lamp 110 may draw the pattern PTN_# inan animated manner. FIGS. 15A through 15D are diagrams for explainingthe drawing of the pattern PTN_# in an animated display manner. As shownin FIG. 15A, the pattern PTN_# may be displayed with blinking. As shownin FIG. 15B, figure components of the pattern PTN_# may be extended (orshortened) with time. Also, as shown in FIG. 15C, the figure componentsof the pattern PTN_# may be sequentially turned on. Also, as shown inFIG. 15D, the figure components of the pattern PTN_# may be moved like ahorizontal escalator.

Modification 3

The variable light distribution lamp 110 may be built into each of theleft and right headlamps 200A. Alternatively, the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may be built into the left and right lamps 300B.In this case, the left and right variable right distribution lamps 110may be configured to provide different irradiation areas. For example,one variable light distribution lamp 110 may irradiate half of theirradiation area 904 shown in FIG. 1. Also, the other variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may irradiate the other half of the irradiationarea 904 shown in FIG. 1.

Modification 4

Description has been made in the embodiment 1 regarding an arrangementin which the variable light distribution lamp 110 is configured as anadditional light source with respect to the low-beam lamp 102 and thehigh-beam lamp 104. Also, the variable light distribution lamp 110 mayintegrally support a function of at least one from among the low-beamlamp 102 and the high-beam lamp 104.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a lamp system (or automotive lamp)100 according to one embodiment 2. The lamp system 100 includes avariable light distribution lamp 110, a camera 120, a light distributioncontroller 130, a low-beam lamp 210, and a high-beam lamp 220. All thecomponents may be built into the same housing. Also, several componentsmay be provided as external components of the housing, i.e., may beprovided on the vehicle side.

In the present embodiment, the variable light distribution lamp 110 isprovided as an additional component separately from the low-beam lamp210 and the high-beam lamp 220. Accordingly, the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may be referred to as an “additional beam lamp”.

The variable light distribution lamp 110 includes a white light source.The variable light distribution lamp 110 is configured to receive acontrol signal S_(CTRL) that indicates a light distribution pattern PTNfrom the light distribution controller 130, to emit a beam BM having anintensity distribution that corresponds to the control signal S_(CTRL),and to form a luminance distribution (irradiation pattern) in front ofthe vehicle. The configuration of the variable light distribution lamp110 is not restricted in particular. For example, the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may include a semiconductor light source such as alaser diode (LD), light-emitting diode (LED), or the like, and alighting circuit configured to drive the semiconductor light source toemit light. The variable light distribution lamp 110 may include amatrix-type pattern-forming device such as a digital mirror device(DMD), liquid crystal device, or the like. Alternatively, the variablelight distribution lamp 110 may be configured as a light-emittingelement array (which will also be referred to as a “μ-LED”).

The irradiation area to be provided by the variable light distributionlamp 110 is determined so as to cover at least the face (head portion)of a pedestrian and the road surface. Accordingly, with the presentembodiment, the irradiation area supported by the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 overlaps a part of the high-beam irradiation areaand a part of the low-beam irradiation area.

The camera 120 captures an image of a region in front of the vehicle.The light distribution controller 130 dynamically and adaptivelycontrols the light distribution pattern PTN to be supplied to thevariable light distribution lamp 110 based on the image (which will bereferred to as a “camera image IMG” hereafter) captured by the camera120. The light distribution pattern PTN determines the two-dimensionalluminance distribution of the white-light irradiation pattern 902 formedon a virtual vertical screen 900 in front of the user's vehicle. Thelight distribution controller 130 may be configured as a digitalprocessor. For example, the light distribution controller 130 may beconfigured as a microcontroller including a CPU and a software program.Also, the light distribution controller 130 may be configured as a fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), application specified IC (ASIC), or thelike.

The high-beam lamp 220 may be configured to provide a variable lightdistribution as with the variable light distribution lamp 110. In thiscase, the light distribution controller 130 may control the lightdistribution to be provided by the high-beam lamp 220 based on thecamera image IMG. An electronic control unit (ECU) 140 integrallycontrols the lamp system 100. Specifically, the ECU 140 generates on/offinstructions etc., for the low-beam lamp 210, the high-beam lamp 220,and the variable light distribution lamp 110. Furthermore, the ECU 140transmits information necessary for the light distribution control.

The light distribution controller 130 processes the camera image IMG soas to detect a pedestrian. Furthermore, the light distributioncontroller 130 temporarily changes the light intensity for a part of thebeam BM irradiated to the face of the pedestrian. In the presentspecification, this operation will be referred to as “personalflashing”).

Also, upon detecting a pedestrian, the light distribution controller 130may draw a predetermined pattern on the road surface. The pattern may bedesigned such that it extends toward the pedestrian from the vehiclemounting the lamp system. The drawing of the pattern to the road surfaceis enabled only when a predetermined condition is satisfied.

For example, a parameter of such a predetermined condition may bedefined giving consideration to the vehicle speed. That is to say, whenthe vehicle speed is higher than a predetermined threshold value (e.g.,30 km/h), such a situation has a high potential to involve heavy damageif a collision occurs. Accordingly, the road drawing is provided as anadditional function so as to prompt the driver to drive with a higherlevel of caution.

Alternatively, a parameter of such a predetermined condition may bedefined giving consideration to the distance between the vehicle and thepedestrian. That is to say, when the distance is shorter than apredetermined threshold value, such a situation has a high potential toinvolve heavy damage if a collision occurs. Accordingly, the roaddrawing is provided as an additional function so as to prompt the driverto drive with a higher level of caution.

Also, as a predetermined condition, whether or not a pedestrian isincluded in a predetermined region with the user's vehicle as a startpoint may be employed.

Such a predetermined condition may be defined giving consideration to acombination of such situations as described above.

That is to say, the risk level is evaluated based on predeterminedcriteria. When the risk level is relatively high, the road surfacedrawing is enabled. Conversely, when the risk level is relatively low,the road surface drawing is disabled.

The above is the basic configuration of the lamp system 100. Next,description will be made regarding the operation thereof.

FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining a personal flashing operation of thelamp system 100 shown in FIG. 16. In the vehicle traveling situationshown in FIG. 17, a leading vehicle 3 and a pedestrian 4 are present.The vehicle is traveling in a low-beam mode. A region LB that is lowerthan a cutoff line is illuminated by the low-beam lamp.

The broken line 10 indicates an area to which the beam BM can beirradiated by the variable light distribution lamp 110. In this case,upon detecting the pedestrian 4, the light distribution controller 130temporarily illuminates a part 12 including the head portion (face) ofthe pedestrian. In this situation, the other portions are notilluminated by the variable light distribution lamp 110. Such temporaryirradiation may be repeated.

With such personal flashing, this arrangement is capable of providingflashing to only the head portion 12 of the pedestrian 4, therebyallowing the pedestrian 4 to notice the presence of the user's vehicle.This prompts the pedestrian 4 to perform avoidance behaviors.Furthermore, this provides a flashing effect to such a local portion 12in front of the user's vehicle, thereby allowing the driver of theuser's vehicle to be warned. This allows the driver to notice thepresence of the pedestrian 6.

The frequency of the personal flashing beam may be dynamically changedaccording to the vehicle traveling situation.

The light distribution controller 130 may adjust the beam intensity suchthat the light intensity with which the face portion 12 is illuminatedapproaches a constant value. That is to say, as the distance up to thepedestrian becomes smaller, the beam intensity may be lowered.Conversely, as the distance up to the pedestrian becomes larger, thebeam intensity may be raised. This allows the pedestrian to notice thepresence of the user's vehicle over a larger distance. Furthermore, thisallows glare imparted to the pedestrian to be reduced even if thedistance between the user's vehicle and the pedestrian is small.

FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the road surface drawing operationof the lamp system 100 shown in FIG. 16. When the above-describedpredetermined condition has been satisfied, the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 draws the predetermined pattern 14 on the roadsurface. In this example, the pattern 14 is designed as multiple barpatterns arranged in a direction extending from the user's vehicle tothe pedestrian 4. The shape of the pattern 14 is not restricted inparticular. Also, an arrow extending toward the pedestrian 4 may beemployed. Also, other kinds of shapes may be employed. The pattern 14may be drawn such that it moves on the road surface like an escalator.Also, the pattern 14 may be drawn with flashing in the same manner asthat for the face portion 12.

By providing the road surface drawing as an additional function, whenthe pedestrian 4 walks while looking down at the ground, the pedestrian4 is able to notice the pattern 14 drawn on the road surface, therebyallowing the pedestrian 4 to notice the presence of the vehicle 2.Furthermore, the directionality of the pattern 14 allows the pedestrian4 to intuitively perceive the direction in which the vehicle 2 islocated.

FIGS. 19A through 19D are diagrams for explaining the operation of thelamp system 100 shown in FIG. 16 in a time series manner. In FIG. 19,there is no pedestrian in front of the user's vehicle 2. In thissituation, the user's vehicle 2 travels with only an ordinary low beamLB (or high beam). In FIG. 19B, the pedestrian 4 is detected in front ofthe vehicle. Upon detecting the pedestrian 4, a flashing beam BM isirradiated to the face portion 12 of the pedestrian 4 as shown in FIG.19C. When the pedestrian remains in an oncoming lane without stopping asshown in FIG. 19D, the pattern 14 is drawn as an additional function.This allows the pedestrian 4 to be further warned.

FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a personal flashing operation inanother traveling situation. FIG. 20 shows a traveling situation inwhich the vehicle travels in a high-beam mode with an ADB function. AnADB high beam HB is irradiated such that the portions of the pedestrian4 and the leading vehicle 3 are masked. The beam BM of the variablelight distribution lamp 110 is irradiated to the face portion 12 of thepedestrian 4.

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining a personal flashing operation in yetanother traveling situation. In this situation, multiple pedestrians 4Athrough 4D are detected. In a case in which the personal flashing isperformed for all the pedestrians 4A through 4D, in actuality, such anoperation has the potential to confuse the driver. In order to solvesuch a problem, the light distribution controller 130 selects apredetermined number of people (two, in this example), pedestrians 4Band 4D, judged to have the largest risk as the personal flashingtargets. That is to say, the face portions 12B and 12C of the pedestrian4B and 4C are illuminated with flashing.

Next, description will be made regarding a configuration example of thelamp system 100. FIGS. 22A and 22B are diagrams each showing aconfiguration example of the lamp system 100. FIG. 22A shows an examplein which the variable light distribution lamp 110 is built into theheadlamp 200 together with the low-beam lamp 210 and the high-beam lamp220.

FIG. 22B shows an example in which the variable light distribution lamp110 is built into a lamp 300 configured independently of the headlamp200. The lamp 300 is mounted on a bumper 302 arranged on a front side ofthe vehicle, for example.

FIGS. 23A and 23B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system. FIG. 23A shows an example in whichthe camera 120 is provided as an external component of the lamp 200 (or300). The light distribution pattern to be provided by the variablelight distribution lamp 110 is generated by the ECU 310 arranged on thevehicle side as an external component of the lamp 200. Accordingly, inthis example, the function of the light distribution controller 130shown in FIG. 16 is supported by the ECU 310. The ECU 310 controls thebeam BM to be emitted by the variable light distribution lamp 110 basedon the image captured by the camera, vehicle information (vehicle speedand steering angle), distance measurement data, etc. The variable lightdistribution lamp 110 includes a DMD 112, a driver 114 for the DMD 112,and a projector lens 116.

FIG. 23B shows an example in which the camera 120 is built into the lamp200. The functions of the light distribution controller 130 aresupported by the ECU configured as a lamp-side component.

Modification 5

The left and right headlamps 200 or lamps 300 may each include such avariable light distribution lamp 110 as a built-in component. In thiscase, the left and right variable light distribution lamps 110 mayprovide substantially the same irradiation area. That is to say, thebeams irradiated by the left and right variable light distribution lamps110 may be superimposed.

Modification 6

The left and right headlamps 200 or lamps 300 may each include such avariable light distribution lamp 110 as a built-in component. In thiscase, the left and right variable light distribution lamps 110 maysupport different irradiation areas. For example, one variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may illuminate an upper-side region of theirradiation area 10 shown in FIG. 17. Also, the other variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may illuminate a lower-side region of theirradiation area 10 shown in FIG. 17.

Modification 7

Unlike the embodiment 2 described above, when the vehicle speed issmaller than a predetermined threshold value (e.g., 30 km/h), the roadsurface drawing may be performed. In this case, the road surface drawingprovides information to a pedestrian for a long period of time.Accordingly, this allows the pedestrian to easily recognize the contentof the characters or patterns drawn on the road surface.

Modification 8

Description has been made in the embodiment 2 regarding an example inwhich the variable light distribution lamp 110 is configured as anadditional light source with respect to the low-beam lamp 210 and thehigh-beam lamp 220. Also, the function of at least one of the low-beamlamp 210 and the high-beam lamp 220 may be integrated in the variablelight distribution lamp 110.

Third Embodiment Embodiment 3-1

FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing a lamp system 100 according to oneembodiment 3-1. The lamp system 100 includes a first variable lightdistribution lamp 110 and a second variable light distribution lamp 120.The first variable light distribution lamp 110 is provided on theleft-front side of the vehicle 200. The first variable lightdistribution lamp 110 irradiates a first beam BMl with a variable lightintensity distribution to the road surface, so as to draw a firstpattern PTNl. The second variable light distribution lamp 120 isprovided on the right-front side of the vehicle. The second variablelight distribution lamp 120 irradiates a second beam BMr with a variablelight intensity distribution to the road surface, so as to draw a secondpattern PTNr. For example, the first variable light distribution lamp110 and the second variable light distribution lamp 120 are built into aleft headlamp 202 and a right headlamp 204, respectively. However, thepresent invention is not restricted to such an arrangement.

The first pattern PTNl and the second pattern PTNr include a firstfigure Fl and a second figure Fr that overlap on the road surface. FIG.26 shows an example in which the two figures Fl and Fr are eachconfigured as an arrow. In a reference state, the first figure Fl andthe second figure Rr are generated to have an intentional differencebetween them. The “reference state” is defined as a most typical stateassumed in the design stage. For example, the “reference state” may bedesigned as an ideal state shown in FIG. 24 in which the vehicle travelswith a pitching angle of zero on a perfectly flat road surface.

FIG. 26 shows an example in which one (Fl) from among the first figureFl and the second figure Fr is generated as an inset with respect to theother figure (Fr). In other words, the second figure Fr is generated asan outset with respect to the first figure Fl.

The above is the configuration of the lamp system 100. Next, descriptionwill be made regarding several traveling situation examples.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of the field of view from thedriver's seat. The lamp system 100 draws an arrow pattern PTN on theroad surface in front of the user's vehicle (not shown). For example,the arrow pattern is generated in cooperation with the car navigationsystem. This indicates a state in which the user's vehicle should gostraight (or keep to the lane). The pattern PTN is drawn bysuperimposing the beams generated by the left and right variable lightdistribution lamps 110 and 120.

FIGS. 28A and 28B are diagrams for explaining the drawing operation ofthe lamp system 100 for the pattern PTN in the reference state. In thisexample, the figure is generated as a simple pattern, i.e., as arectangular pattern. FIG. 28A is a diagram showing a road surface 900 asviewed from the side. FIG. 28B is a diagram showing the road surface 900as viewed from above.

The first figure Fl and the second figure Fr are drawn such that theyoverlap on the road surface. The two figures are drawn such that thereis a sufficient distance d between the outlines thereof. The distance dwill be referred to as an inset amount (or outset amount). The insetamounts d₁ through d₄ may be designed to have the same value for all thesides of the figure, or may be designed to have different values.

FIGS. 29A and 29B are diagrams for explaining a drawing operation of thelamp system 100 for drawing the pattern PTN in a realistic state. FIG.29A is a diagram showing the road surface 900 as viewed from the side.FIG. 29B is a diagram showing the road surface 900 as viewed from above.In such a realistic state, the road surface 900′ has a slope as comparedwith the road surface 900 in the reference state. The slope leads to achange in the shape of each of the figures Fl′ and Fr′ shown in FIG. 29Bwith respect to the figures Fl and Fr shown in FIG. 29. Accordingly, theinset amounts d₁′ and d₃′ on the left side deviate from the originalinset amounts d₁ and d₃ shown in FIG. 29 due to the change in theshapes. However, the deviation Δd of the inset amount is sufficientlysmall with respect to the original inset amount d. Accordingly, in sucha realistic state, the figures Fl′ and Fr′ are drawn such that there isa sufficiently large distance between the outlines thereof. Thisarrangement is capable of solving a double counter problem and ablurring problem as shown in FIG. 25.

In other words, the inset amount d to be designed in the reference statemay preferably be determined so as to provide a sufficient inset amountd′ in a realistic state. Giving consideration to the fact that thepitching angle of the vehicle has a larger effect than that of the slopeof the road surface defined in the left-right direction, the insetamounts d₂ and d₄ (or offset amounts) defined in the front-reardirection (y direction) are preferably designed to have a larger valuethan the inset amounts d₁ and d₃ (or offset amounts) defined in thehorizontal direction (x direction). For example, the inset amounts d₂and d₄ (offset amounts) defined in the horizontal direction may bedesigned to be a value ranging between 5 cm and 50 cm. Also, the insetamounts d₁ and d₃ defined in the front-rear direction may be designed tobe a value on the order of 10 cm to 3 m.

The change in the pitching angle leads to the occurrence of imagedistortion in the y direction, leading to a change in the inset amountsd₂ and d₄. However, there is a sufficiently large distance between theoutlines of the figures Fl and Fr′, thereby solving a double outlineproblem and a blurring problem.

The pattern PTN may include multiple figures. FIGS. 30A and 30B arediagrams for explaining the pattern PTN including multiple figures. FIG.30A shows an example in which the pattern PTN includes figures F₁ and F₂that indicate multiple characters (numeric characters). The figure F₁ isdesigned as a numeric character “4”. The figure F₂ is designed as anumeric character “0”. The first pattern PTNl includes figures Fl₁ andFl₂. The second pattern PTNr includes figures Fr₁ and Fr₂. The figureFl₁ is designed as an inset with respect to the figure Fr₁. The figureFl₂ is designed as an inset with respect to the figure Fr₂.

FIG. 30B shows an example in which the pattern PTN includes multiplefigures F₁ through F₃. The figures F₁ through F₃ are each designed as arectangular pattern. The first pattern PTNl includes figures Fl₁ throughFl₃. The second pattern PTNr includes figures Fr₁ through Fr₃. Thefigure Fl_(#) (“#”=“1”, “2”, “3”) is designed as an inset with respectto the corresponding figure Fr_(#).

Embodiment 3-2

Description has been made in the embodiment 3-1 regarding an arrangementin which there is a difference in the shape (size) between the figuresFl and Fr included in the patterns drawn by the left and right beams.However, the present invention is not restricted to such an example.Description will be made in the embodiment 3-2 regarding an example inwhich there is a difference in the brightness level between the figuresFl and Fr generated by the left and the right beams. As a simplestconfiguration, an arrangement may be made in which there is a differencein the beam intensity between the first beam BMl and the second beamBMr. This allows the lamp to have a simple configuration.

FIGS. 31A and 31B are diagrams for explaining the pattern drawing in thereference state according to the embodiment 3-2. FIG. 31A is a plan viewof the pattern as viewed from above. FIG. 31B shows the illuminationlevel distributions (luminance distributions) of the figures Fl and Frand the figure obtained by overlapping Fl and Fr in this order from thetop. For simplification of description, description will be maderegarding an example in which the figures Fl and Fr each have arectangular shape with substantially the same size.

As shown in FIG. 31A, the figures Fl and Fr are designed to haveoutlines matching each other in the reference state. Furthermore, asshown in the first stage and the second stage in FIG. 31B, the figure Flis drawn by the left beam with a higher light intensity than that of thefigure Fr drawn by the right beam. As shown in the lowest stage in FIG.31B, the two beams are superimposed so as to raise the illuminationlevel.

FIGS. 32A and 32B are diagrams for explaining the pattern drawing in arealistic state according to the embodiment 3-2. FIG. 32A is a plan viewof the pattern as viewed from above. FIG. 32B shows the illuminationlevel distributions (luminance distributions) of the figures Fl and Frand the figure obtained by overlapping Fl and Fr in this order from thetop.

As shown in FIG. 32A, in such a realistic state, the figures Fl and Frgenerated by the left and the right beams are distorted due to the slopeof the road surface or the pitching of the vehicle body. Theillumination level distribution obtained by superimposing the two beamsis shown in the lowest stage in FIG. 31B.

The outline deviation between the two figures Fl and Fr leads to theoccurrence of two boundaries B1 and B2. In a case in which the two beamsare irradiated with the same light intensity, the difference in theillumination level between the outer outline and the inner outlinebecomes substantially zero. Accordingly, the two boundaries B1 and B2are perceived by human vision as the same level, which is perceived as adouble outline structure.

With the embodiment 3-2, there is a difference in the brightness levelbetween the two figures. That is to say, the inner-side boundary B1provides a high illumination difference (or contrast ratio), therebyemphasizing the boundary B1. Accordingly, the boundary B2 is perceivedwith a lower level by human vision, thereby solving a double outlineproblem.

Next, description will be made regarding a configuration example of thelamp system 100. FIGS. 33A and 33B are diagrams each showing aconfiguration example of the lamp system 100. FIG. 33A shows an examplein which the variable light distribution lamp 110 (120) is built intothe headlamp 202 (204) together with the low-beam lamp 210 and thehigh-beam lamp 220.

FIG. 33B shows an example in which the variable light distribution lamp110 (120) is built into the lamp 230 (232) configured independently ofthe headlamp 202 (204). The lamp 230 (232) is attached to the bumper 240arranged on a front side of the vehicle, for example.

FIGS. 34A and 34B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system. In the lamp system 100A shown in FIG.34A, the light distribution pattern to be provided by the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 (120) is generated by the ECU 310 arranged on thevehicle side as an external component of the lamp 300. The ECU 310controls the beam BM to be emitted by the variable light distributionlamp 110 based on the image captured by the camera, vehicle information(vehicle speed and steering angle), distance measurement data, etc., soas to draw a pattern on the road surface. The variable lightdistribution lamp 110 includes a digital micromirror device (DMD) 112, adriver 114 for the DMD 112, and a projector lens 116.

In the lamp system 100B shown in FIG. 34B, the ECU 302 is provided onthe lamp side. The ECU 302 controls the beam BM to be emitted by thevariable light distribution lamp 110 based on the image captured by thecamera, vehicle information (vehicle speed and steering angle), distancemeasurement data, etc., so as to draw a pattern on the road surface.

Description will be made regarding modifications relating to the thirdembodiment.

Description has been made in the embodiments 3-1 and 3-2 regarding anarrangement in which the variable light distribution lamp 110 isconfigured as an additional light source with respect to the low-beamlamp 210 and the high-beam lamp 220. Also, the function of at least onefrom among the low-beam lamp 210 and the high-beam lamp 220 may beintegrated in the variable light distribution lamp 110.

Description has been made in the embodiment 3-1 regarding an arrangementin which there is a difference in the size between the two figures drawnby the left and right beams. Description has been made in the embodiment3-2 regarding an arrangement in which there is a difference in thebrightness level between the two figures. Also, an arrangement may bemade as a combination thereof.

The difference between the first figure Fl drawn by one beam and thesecond figure Fr drawn by the other beam is not restricted to the sizeor brightness level. That is to say, other kinds of difference may beemployed. For example, the first figure Fl and the second figure Fr maybe drawn with the same size and the same brightness level at irradiationpositions intentionally shifted from each other. Specifically, the firstfigure Fl and the second figure Fr may be drawn with offsets in the xdirection (vehicle width direction) and the y direction (vehiclefront-rear direction). The offset employed in this example can beunderstood as the inset described in the embodiment 3-1, thereby solvingthe double outline problem.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing a lamp system (or automotive lamp)100 according to one embodiment 4. The lamp system 100 includes avariable light distribution lamp 110, a camera 120, a sensor 122, alight distribution controller 130, a low-beam lamp 210, and a high-beamlamp 220. All the components may be built into the same housing. Also,several components may be provided as external components of thehousing, i.e., may be provided on the vehicle side.

In the present embodiment, the variable light distribution lamp 110 isprovided as an additional lamp separately from the low-beam lamp 210 andthe high-beam lamp 220. Accordingly, the variable light distributionlamp 110 may be referred to as an “additional beam lamp”.

The variable light distribution lamp 110 includes a white light source.The variable light distribution lamp 110 receives a control signalS_(CTRL) that indicates a light distribution pattern PTN from the lightdistribution controller 130, and emits a beam BM having a lightintensity distribution that corresponds to the control signal S_(CTRL),so as to generate an illumination level distribution (irradiationpattern) in front of the vehicle according to the control signalS_(CTRL). The configuration of the variable light distribution lamp 110is not restricted in particular. For example, the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may include a semiconductor light source such as alaser diode (LD), a light-emitting diode (LED), or the like, and alighting circuit configured to drive the semiconductor light source suchthat it emits light. In order to form the illumination distributionpattern that corresponds to the light distribution pattern PTN, thevariable light distribution lamp 110 may include a matrix-typepattern-forming device such as a digital mirror device (DMD), a liquidcrystal device, or the like. Also, the variable light distribution lamp110 may be configured as a light-emitting element array (which will alsobe referred to as a “μ-LED”).

The irradiation area supported by the variable light distribution lamp110 is determined so as to cover at least the road surface. Accordingly,the irradiation area supported by the variable light distribution lamp110 is designed such that it overlaps a part of the irradiation area ofthe low-beam lamp.

The camera 120 captures an image of a region in front of the vehicle.The light distribution controller 130 dynamically and adaptivelycontrols the light distribution pattern PTN to be supplied to thevariable light distribution lamp 110 based on the image (which will bereferred to a “camera image IMG” hereafter) captured by the camera 120.The light distribution pattern PTN defines a two-dimensionalillumination level distribution of a white-light irradiation patternformed by the variable light distribution lamp 110 on a virtual verticalscreen 900 defined in front of the user's vehicle. The lightdistribution controller 130 may be configured as a digital processor.For example, the light distribution controller 130 may be configured asa combination of a microcontroller including a CPU and a softwareprogram. Also, the light distribution controller 130 may be configuredas a field programmable gate array (FPGA), application specified IC(ASIC), or the like.

More specifically, when the vehicle mounting the lamp system 100 istraveling, the light distribution controller 130 controls the variablelight distribution lamp 110 so as to draw a figure for drivingassistance on the road surface using the beam BM. The kind of the figureis not restricted in particular. For example, the light distributioncontroller 130 may draw a figure that indicates the legal speedinformation, road signs, or the like, in an easily viewable form for thedriver. Also, in order to provide driving assistance to other vehicles,the light distribution controller 130 may draw a figure that indicatesthe traveling direction of the user's vehicle.

The high-beam lamp 220 may be configured as a variable lightdistribution lamp as with the variable light distribution lamp 110. Inthis case, the light distribution controller 130 may control the lightdistribution to be provided by the high-beam lamp 220 based on thecamera image IMG. The electronic control unit (ECU) 140 integrallycontrols the lamp system 100. Specifically, the ECU 140 generates anon/off instruction etc., for the low-beam lamp 210, the high-beam lamp220, and the variable light distribution lamp 110. Furthermore, the ECU140 transmits information necessary for the light distribution controloperation to the light distribution controller 130.

When a person who satisfies a predetermined condition approaches thevehicle while it is parked, the light distribution controller 130controls the variable light distribution lamp 110 so as to draw apredetermined pattern on the ground using the beam BM.

The sensor 122 is provided in order to detect the proximity of a personwho satisfies a predetermined condition. Accordingly, the sensor 122 maybe designed and selected according to such a predetermined condition.For example, in a case in which the proximity of a person having avehicle key, smartphone, or the like is employed as such a predeterminedcondition, the sensor 122 may be configured to be selected as a devicethat is capable of communicating with such a key or smartphone, or thatis capable of receiving a wireless signal emitted from the key orsmartphone.

As such a predetermined pattern, a logo relating to the vehicle may beemployed, examples of which include a logo or trademark of theautomobile manufacturer, and a model name or trademark of the vehicleitself. Also, a character string such as “Hello” or the like may beemployed. Also, a figure may be employed.

The above is the basic configuration of the lamp system 100. Next,description will be made regarding the operation thereof. FIGS. 36A and36B are diagrams for explaining the operation of the lamp system 100shown in FIG. 35. FIG. 36A shows the operation when the vehicle istraveling normally. The lamp system 100 draws a FIG. 5 for drivingassistance on the road surface 3 in front of the user's vehicle 2mounting the lamp system 100 such that it is drawn in a region that isvisible to the driver 4. In this example, the legal speed information(40 km/h) is drawn.

FIG. 36B is a diagram for explaining the operation of the lamp system100 shown in FIG. 35 when the vehicle is parked. When a person 6 whosatisfies a predetermined condition approaches the parked vehicle, apredetermined pattern 8 is drawn on a ground 7. Such a person 6 is thedriver or a passenger of the user's vehicle 2. In an example shown inFIG. 36B, as the predetermined pattern 8, a character string “Hello” isemployed. Such a character string may be changed to “Good Morning” or“Good Evening” according to the time of day.

The predetermined pattern may be extinguished when the door of thevehicle has been unlocked, when the door has been opened or closed, orwhen the proximity of the person 6 to the vehicle 2 becomes equal to orsmaller than a predetermined distance.

When the vehicle is parked, the pattern drawing is not required to bevisible from the driver's seat. Rather, the pattern is preferably drawnat a position in the vicinity of the user's vehicle 2. In a case inwhich the pattern 8 is drawn at a position in the vicinity of the user'svehicle 2, the pattern 8 indicates the position of the user's vehicle 2.Accordingly, this allows the person 6 to view the pattern 8 so as toknow the position of the user's vehicle 2.

FIGS. 37A through 37C are diagrams for explaining the operation of thelamp system 100 shown in FIG. 35 when the vehicle is parked. FIG. 37Ashows a state in which the user's vehicle 2 is parked and the person(driver or passenger) 6 is not present. Subsequently, when the person 6returns to the user's vehicle 2 as shown in FIG. 37B, the pattern 8 isdrawn on the ground in front of the user's vehicle 2.

In many parking lots, there are parking stalls arranged in the widthdirection of the vehicles. Such a parking stall group is designed suchthat it faces another parking stall group across a passageway. Thepassageway is designed to have a width on the order of 5 m to 8 m.Accordingly, the pattern 8 may be preferably irradiated in a range 1 mto 6 m in front of the vehicle (e.g., in a range 4 m ahead of the frontedge of the bumper of the vehicle). This allows the pattern to beirradiated to the passageway, thereby allowing the person 6 to noticethe pattern even if there is a large distance between the person 6 andthe vehicle.

Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 37C, when the person unlocks and gets inthe user's vehicle 2, the pattern 8 is extinguished.

The above is the operation of the lamp system 100.

In some cases, the driver (or passenger) loses track of the user'svehicle. Conventionally, in order to search for the user's vehicle 2,the driver operates a remote control key so as to turn on the lamp ofthe user's vehicle 2. However, with this method, the user's vehicle isunlocked in a state in which the driver has no information with respectto the position of the user's vehicle 2. Accordingly, this method is byno means a correct method from the security viewpoint.

With the lamp system 100 according to the present embodiment, thepattern is automatically drawn on the ground without requiring theperson 6 to press a button or the like. This arrangement provides animproved “impression of service” as compared with conventionaltechniques.

In addition, the door of the user's vehicle 2 is not unlocked when thepattern is drawn on the road surface. This arrangement has an advantagefrom the security viewpoint.

Furthermore, the light source for drawing the pattern 8 also functionsas a light source for drawing a figure on the road surface when thevehicle is traveling normally. This suppresses an increase in costs ofthe hardware components.

Next, description will be made regarding an example configuration of thelamp system 100. FIGS. 38A and 38B are diagrams each showing an exampleconfiguration of the lamp system 100. In FIG. 38A, the variable lightdistribution lamp 110 is built into the headlamp 200 together with thelow-beam lamp 210 and the high-beam lamp 220.

In FIG. 38B, the variable light distribution lamp 110 is built into thelamp 300 configured independently of the headlamp 200. The lamp 300 isattached to the bumper 302 arranged on a front side of the vehicle, forexample.

FIGS. 39A and 39B are diagrams each showing an example configuration ofa control system of a lamp system. In FIG. 39A, the camera 120 isprovided as an external component of the lamp 200 (or 300). The lightdistribution pattern to be provided by the variable light distributionlamp 110 is generated by the ECU 310 arranged on the vehicle side as anexternal component of the lamp 200. Accordingly, in this example, thefunction of the light distribution controller 130 shown in FIG. 35 issupported by the ECU 310. The ECU 310 controls the beam BM to be emittedby the variable light distribution lamp 110 based on the image capturedby the camera, vehicle information (vehicle speed and steering angle),distance measurement data, etc. The variable light distribution lamp 110includes a DMD 112, a driver 114 for the DMD 112, and a projector lens116.

In FIG. 39B, the camera 120 is built into the lamp 200. The function ofthe light distribution controller 130 is supported by the ECU arrangedon the lamp side.

Description will be made regarding modifications relating to the fourthembodiment.

Modification 9

Description has been made with reference to FIG. 36B regarding anexample in which, as the pattern 8, a generic character string “Hello”is drawn. If such an automobile mounting the lamp system 100 becomeswidely used in the future, this has the potential to cause a situationin which the same character strings are drawn at different locations onthe ground of a parking lot. Accordingly, this arrangement has thepotential to involve an adverse effect, i.e., a situation in which thedriver 6 loses track of the user's vehicle 2. In order to solve such aproblem, as the pattern 8, a figure that is unique to the user's vehicle2 (or driver 6) may be drawn. This allows the person 6 to distinguish apattern drawn by the user's vehicle from among the patterns drawn atdifferent locations.

Modification 10

Description has been made in the embodiment 4 regarding an arrangementin which, when the person 6 who satisfies a predetermined condition hasapproached the user's vehicle, the pattern 8 is automatically drawn.However, the present invention is not restricted to such an arrangement.For example, the remote controller may be provided with an additionalbutton that allows a trigger to be supplied for drawing the pattern 8.Upon pressing the button as a trigger, the lamp system 100 may draw thepattern 8 (without unlocking the door). This arrangement requires theuser to perform an additional action, i.e., to press the button, fordrawing the pattern. This degrades the impression of service. However,such an arrangement also has an advantage of allowing the user to obtaininformation with respect to the position of the user's vehicle without aneed to unlock the door.

Modification 11

Also, the pattern to be drawn on the road surface when the vehicle isparked may be specified by the user. For example, such an arrangementmay allow the user to freely edit the character string. Also, such anarrangement may allow the user to specify the image data.

Modification 12

When the vehicle is parked, the light distribution controller 130 maydetect the direction of a person who satisfies the predeterminedcondition. Also, the light distribution controller 130 may move thepattern toward the direction of the person thus detected. Also, in acase in which a logo or text is drawn, the light distribution controller130 may rotate or change the shape of the pattern so as to allow theperson thus detected to easily read the logo or text. This furtherimproves the impression of service.

Modification 13

The left and right headlamps 200 or lamps 300 may each include such avariable light distribution lamp 110 as a built-in component. In thiscase, the left and right variable light distribution lamps 110 mayprovide substantially the same irradiation area. That is to say, thebeams irradiated by the left and right variable light distribution lamps110 may be superimposed.

Modification 14

The left and right headlamps 200 or lamps 300 may each include such avariable light distribution lamp 110 as a built-in component. In thiscase, the left and right variable light distribution lamps 110 maysupport different irradiation areas. For example, one variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may illuminate an upper-side region of theirradiation area 10 shown in FIG. 36. Also, the other variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may illuminate a lower-side region of theirradiation area 10 shown in FIG. 36.

Modification 15

Description has been made in the embodiment 4 regarding an example inwhich the variable light distribution lamp 110 is configured as anadditional light source with respect to the low-beam lamp 210 and thehigh-beam lamp 220. Also, the function of at least one of the low-beamlamp 210 and the high-beam lamp 220 may be integrated in the variablelight distribution lamp 110.

Fifth Embodiment

FIG. 40 is a block diagram showing a lamp system (or automotive lamp)100 according to one embodiment 5. The lamp system 100 includes avariable light distribution lamp 110, a camera 120, a light distributioncontroller 130, a low-beam lamp 102, and a high-beam lamp 104. Suchcomponents may be built into the same housing. Also, several componentsmay be provided as external components of the housing, i.e., may beprovided on the vehicle side.

In the present embodiment, the variable light distribution lamp 110 isprovided as an additional lamp in addition to the low-beam lamp 102 andthe high-beam lamp 104. Accordingly, the variable light distributionlamp 110 may be referred to as an “additional beam lamp”.

The variable light distribution lamp 110 includes a white light source.The variable light distribution lamp 110 receives, from the lightdistribution controller 130, a control signal S_(CTRL) that indicates apattern PTN to be drawn on a road surface 900, and irradiates a beam BMhaving an intensity distribution 902 that corresponds to the controlsignal S_(CTRL) to the road surface 900 in front of the vehicle, so asto draw the pattern PTN on the road surface 900. The pattern PTN isformed in an irradiation area 904 provided by the beam BM.

The configuration of the variable light distribution lamp 110 is notrestricted in particular. For example, the variable light distributionlamp 110 may include a semiconductor light source such as a laser diode(LD), a light-emitting diode (LED), or the like, and a lighting circuitconfigured to drive and turn on the semiconductor light source. Thevariable light distribution lamp 110 may include a matrix-typepattern-forming device such as a digital mirror device (DMD), a liquidcrystal device, or the like. Also, the variable light distribution lamp110 may be configured as a light-emitting element array (which will bealso referred to as a “μ-LED”).

Also, the variable light distribution lamp 110 may provide anirradiation area that overlaps a part of the irradiation area providedby the low-beam lamp.

The camera 120 captures an image of a region in front of the vehicle.The light distribution controller 130 may control the pattern PTN to bedrawn on the road surface 900 based on the image captured by the camera120 (which will be referred to as a “camera image IMG” hereafter).

The high-beam lamp 104 may be configured to support variable lightdistribution as with the variable light distribution lamp 110. In thiscase, the light distribution controller 130 may control the lightdistribution to be provided by the high-beam lamp 104 based on thecamera image IMG. An electronic control unit (ECU) 40 integrallycontrols the lamp system 100. Specifically, the ECU 140 generatescommands such as a turn-on command, turn-off command, etc., for thelow-beam lamp 102, the high-beam lamp 104, and the variable lightdistribution lamp 110. Furthermore, the ECU 140 transmits informationrequired for the light distribution control to the light distributioncontroller 130.

The light distribution controller 130 may be configured as a digitalprocessor. For example, the light distribution controller 130 may beconfigured as a combination of a microcontroller including a CPU and asoftware program. Also, the light distribution controller 130 may beconfigured as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), ApplicationSpecified IC (ASIC), or the like.

More specifically, when the vehicle mounting the lamp system 100 istraveling, the light distribution controller 130 controls the variablelight distribution lamp 110, so as to draw a figure on the road surfaceusing the beam BM for driving assistance. The kinds of the figures arenot restricted in particular. For example, legal speed information, roadsigns, or the like, may be drawn so as to allow the driver to easilyview such information. Also, in order to assist other drivers in drivingtheir vehicles, this arrangement may draw a figure that indicates theuser's vehicle traveling direction.

FIG. 41 is a diagram showing an example of a pattern PTN (PTN_A) to bedrawn on the road surface 900 by means of the variable lightdistribution lamp 110. Various kinds and shapes of patterns PTN may beemployed according to the traveling situation. FIG. 41 shows a giventraveling situation. As the pattern PTN_A to be drawn on the roadsurface 900, a figure (character string) that indicates the speed limitmay be employed. Also, examples of such a pattern PTN may include afigure or a character string that indicates information associated witha car navigation system. The pattern PTN is drawn with an appropriatesize at a position that allows a driver 908 of a vehicle (which will bealso referred to as the “user's vehicle”) 906 mounting the lamp system100 to easily view such information.

Description will be made below with reference to typical patterns PTN_Bthat can be drawn by the lamp system 100 according to the embodiment 5.

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing a pattern (approach notice pattern) PTN_Bto be drawn by the lamp system 100 on the road surface. The low beam canbe irradiated to the road surface 900 in addition to the beam irradiatedby the variable light distribution lamp 110. The variable lightdistribution lamp 110 irradiates the pattern PTN_B over a predeterminedrange 912 (x₁ to x₂, y₁ to y₂) with the traveling direction (the x-axisdirection) as the longitudinal direction with a light intensity that isbrighter than that of the low beam BML. In a case in which the origin ofthe x axis is defined to be the front edge of the vehicle, the range 912may be designed with x₁=2 m to 10 m and x₂=30 m to 60 m. An example maybe made in which x₁=7 m and x₂=45 m. As a simplest example, the patternPTN_B may be designed as a uniform irradiation pattern. However, asdescribed later, the present invention is not restricted to such anexample. The pattern PTN_B is irradiated to the road surface around thepedestrian 910 for a length of time that is to some extent long, i.e., aperiod from a time point at which the vehicle 906 approaches thepedestrian (traffic participant) 910 in front of the vehicle 906 up to atime point at which the vehicle overtakes the pedestrian 910.

The above is the basic configuration of the lamp system 100. With thelamp system 100, the pattern PTN_B drawn on the road surface passes bythe traffic participant before the vehicle overtakes the trafficparticipant (pedestrian or bicycle). The pattern PTN_B is brighter thanthe low beam. This allows the traffic participant in front of thevehicle to be notified of the approach of the vehicle from behind. Withthis, the traffic participant views the beam reflected by the roadsurface (i.e., the pattern PTN_B drawn on the road surface) instead ofdirectly viewing the beam BM emitted by the variable light distributionlamp 110. Accordingly, this arrangement has an advantage of preventingglare from being imparted to the traffic participant.

The present invention encompasses various kinds of apparatuses andmethods that can be derived from FIG. 40 or FIG. 42 or descriptionrelating to the drawings. That is to say, the present invention is notrestricted to a specific configuration. More specific description willbe made below regarding an example configuration or an example forclarification and ease of understanding of the essence of the presentinvention and the circuit operation. That is to say, the followingdescription will by no means be intended to restrict the technical scopeof the present invention.

Next, description will be made regarding a specific example of thepattern PTN_B.

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of the pattern PTN_B from above.FIG. 43 shows an example of animation of the pattern PTN_B. It should benoted that, in actuality, the vehicle 906 is traveling. However, forsimplification of description, the vehicle 906 is shown at the sameposition. The pattern PTN_B is drawn within a predetermined range 912indicated by the broken line. The predetermined range 912 may bedesigned as an inner-side portion of the irradiation area 904.

The pattern PTN_B includes multiple (N, e.g., N=4 in this example)figures F_(i) through F_(i+N−1) arranged in the traveling direction(x-axis direction). In this case, the figures F_(i) through F_(i+N−1)are each designed to have the same shape, i.e., a bar shape (rectangularshape) having a long side in the vehicle-width direction (y direction).With such multiple figures, a stripe-shaped pattern is formed.

Each figure (bar) may preferably be designed to have a length Δx in thex direction on the order of 2 m to 5 m. Also, the interval between theadjacent figures may preferably be designed to be on the order of 2 m to5 m. Also, the width Δy of each of the multiple figures may be designedto be substantially equal to or larger than the vehicle. Specifically,the width Δy may preferably be designed to be on the order of 1.5 m to2.5 m.

With the multiple figures thus arranged in the traveling direction, whenthe vehicle is traveling, the multiple figures sequentially pass by thetraffic participant. In this state, the road surface around the trafficparticipant is alternately illuminated in the order of “bright”, “dark”,“bright”, “dark”, . . . . This allows the traffic participant to befurther warned as compared with an arrangement configured to provide auniform illumination pattern.

The pattern PTN_B is generated as an animation of the above-describednumber of figures F_(i) through F_(i+N−1) that slide in a direction awayfrom the vehicle at the same speed. This animation is provided such thatit moves like a horizontal escalator.

Each figure F_(j) (i≤j≤i+n−1) is drawn in only the predetermined range912. Accordingly, after a leading figure (F₁ in this example) reachesthe front edge E1 of the predetermined range 912, a part of the leadingfigure is diminished, and finally the entire leading figure isextinguished from the predetermined range 912. Furthermore, a new figure(F₅ in this example) is generated such that it emerges from the rearedge E2 of the predetermined range 912. Subsequently, the new figurethus generated slides toward the front edge E1.

This animation allows the traffic participant to be notified in anintuitive manner of the approach of the automobile from behind.

The pattern may be generated as an animation of multiple figures slidingin a direction away from the vehicle at the same speed. This allows thetraffic participant to be notified in an intuitive manner of theapproach of an automobile from behind.

The relative speed of the multiple figures with respect to the vehiclemay be designed in a range between 10 km/h and 165 km/h. This allows thetraffic participants to notice the figures with improved performance.

The sliding speed of the multiple figures may be changed according tothe distance between the vehicle and the traffic participant in front ofthe vehicle. This allows the traffic participant to obtain informationwith respect to the distance up to the vehicle based on the speed of theanimation. This allows the traffic participant to obtain informationwith respect to a timing at which the traffic participant will beovertaken by the vehicle. Furthermore, with such an arrangement in whichthe speed of the animation is raised according to a reduction of thedistance, this further prompts the traffic participant to performappropriate action.

Also, the pattern PTN_B may preferably be irradiated in only a situationin which there is a traffic participant in the vicinity of the vehiclewho is to be notified of the approach of the vehicle from behind. Whenthere is no such traffic participant, the pattern PTN_B may preferablynot be drawn. Accordingly, the pattern PTN_B may be drawn when thevehicle speed is equal to or smaller than a predetermined value.

For example, when the vehicle is traveling on a highway or expressway,there is a high probability that there is no traffic participant in thevicinity of the vehicle who is to be provided with the pattern PTN_B.Accordingly, the predetermined value may preferably be defined in arange between 20 km/h and 40 km/h.

When the vehicle is traveling on a road having a large width, there issufficient clearance between the vehicle and the traffic participant.Accordingly, in this case, it can be said that there is no need tonotify the traffic participant of the approach of the vehicle frombehind. Accordingly, the pattern PTN_B may be drawn when the vehicle istraveling on a road having a width that is smaller than a predeterminedwidth. The predetermined width may be designed to be 4 m, for example.

Also, the pattern PTN_B may be drawn upon detecting a pedestrian,bicycle, or the like, in front of the vehicle by means of a camera orthe like.

Next, description will be made regarding a configuration example of thelamp system 100. FIGS. 44A and 44B are diagrams each showing aconfiguration example of the lamp system 100. FIG. 44A shows an examplein which the variable light distribution lamp 110 is built into aheadlamp 300A together with the low-beam lamp 102 and the high-beam lamp104.

FIG. 44B shows an example in which the variable light distribution lamp110 is built into a lamp 300B that is independent of the headlamp 230.The lamp 300B is attached to a bumper 240 arranged on a front side ofthe vehicle 200, for example.

FIGS. 45A and 45B are diagrams each showing a configuration example of acontrol system of a lamp system. The variable light distribution lamp110 includes a DMD 112, a driver 114 for the DMD 112, and a projectorlens 116. FIG. 45A shows an example in which the light distributionpattern to be provided by the variable light distribution lamp 110 isgenerated by an ECU 250 arranged on the vehicle side configured as anexternal component of the lamp 300A (300B). Accordingly, in thisexample, the functions of the light distribution controller 130 shown inFIG. 40 are supported by the ECU 250.

FIG. 45B shows an example in which the lamp 300A (300B) is provided witha lamp ECU 310. The function of the light distribution controller 130 issupported by the lamp ECU 310. The lamp ECU 310 controls the variablelight distribution lamp 110 in cooperation with the ECU 220.

Description will be made regarding modifications relating to the fifthembodiment.

Modification 16

FIGS. 46A through 46C are diagrams each showing the pattern PTN_Baccording to a modification. As shown in FIG. 46A, multiple figures thatform the pattern PTN_B are not restricted to rectangles. Also, thepattern PTN_B may be designed to have other figures such as arrows,triangles, circles, etc. As shown in FIG. 46B, all the multiple figuresthat form PTN_B are not required to have the same size. Also, as shownin FIG. 46C, the multiple figures that form PTN_B may be designed tohave different shapes.

Modification 17

FIG. 47 is a diagram showing a pattern PTN_C according to amodification. The pattern PTN_C includes two lines 914L and 914R thatindicate the vehicle width. This allows the pedestrian 910 to retreataway from the line 914L positioned in the vicinity of the pedestrian910, thereby preventing a collision between the pedestrian 910 and thevehicle 100.

When two vehicle pass each other in a case in which each vehicle drawsthe pattern as shown in FIG. 47, it is difficult to distinguish whichpattern has been drawn by which vehicle. This problem can be solved bythe following modification.

FIGS. 48A through 48C are diagrams each showing a pattern PTN_Daccording to the modification. The patterns PTN_D shown in FIGS. 48Athrough 48C are generated by applying an animation effect to the patternPTN_C shown in FIG. 47. With the pattern PTN_D shown in FIG. 48A, thetwo lines that indicate the vehicle width are drawn such that theyextend in the traveling direction with time. This allows the driver ofthe vehicle 100, the driver of a different vehicle, or a pedestrian, tobe notified of a corresponding vehicle that has drawn the pattern PTN_D.

FIG. 48B shows the pattern PTN_D obtained by further providing thepattern PTN_C shown in FIG. 47 with animation figures 916L and 916Rdrawn such that they extend with time. In FIG. 48B, the animationfigures 916L and 916R are arranged adjacent to the lines 914L and 914R,respectively. The animation figures 916L and 916R are drawn such thattheir lengths extend toward the traveling direction with time. After theanimation figures 916L and 916R extend such that they have the samelength as those of the lines 914L and 914R, the animation figures 916Land 916R are returned to the initial length. Subsequently, the animationfigures 916L and 916R are drawn again such that their lengths extendwith time. It should be noted that one from among the animation figures916L and 916R may be omitted. That is to say, only one from among theanimation figures 916L and 916R may be drawn.

FIG. 48C shows the pattern PTN_D obtained by further providing thepattern PTN_C shown in FIG. 47 with animation figures 918L and 918Rdrawn such that they slide with time. In FIG. 48C, the animation figures918L and 918R are arranged adjacent to the lines 914L and 914R,respectively. The animation figures 918L and 918R are drawn such thattheir positions slide in the traveling direction with time. After thepositions of the animation figures 918L and 918R reach the front edgesof the lines 914L and 914R, the animation figures 918L and 918R arereturned to the initial positions. Subsequently, the animation figures918L and 918R are drawn again such that they slide with time.

Modification 18

Animation movement is not restricted to such sliding. For example, themultiple figures may be sequentially turned on in an order from thecloser side toward the farther side.

Modification 19

Also, the pattern may be drawn on the road surface with blinking. Also,the pattern may be periodically turned on.

Modification 20

The left and right headlamps 300A or lamps 300B may each include such avariable light distribution lamp 110 as a built-in component. In thiscase, the left and right variable light distribution lamps 110 mayprovide substantially the same irradiation area. That is to say, thebeams irradiated by the left and right variable light distribution lamps110 may be superimposed.

Modification 21

The variable light distribution lamp 110 may be built into each of theleft and right headlamps 200A or lamps 300B. In this case, the left andright variable light distribution lamps 110 may be configured to providedifferent irradiation areas. For example, one variable lightdistribution lamp 110 may irradiate half of the irradiation area 904shown in FIG. 40. Also, the other variable light distribution lamp 110may irradiate the other half of the irradiation area 904 shown in FIG.40.

Modification 22

Description has been made in the embodiment 5 regarding an arrangementin which the variable light distribution lamp 110 is configured as anadditional light source with respect to the low-beam lamp 102 and thehigh-beam lamp 104. Also, the variable light distribution lamp 110 mayintegrally support a function of at least one from among the low-beamlamp 102 and the high-beam lamp 104.

Modification 23

Description has been above regarding an arrangement in which the patternPTN is drawn when the vehicle overtakes a pedestrian. Also, the patternPTN may be drawn when the vehicle passes a pedestrian in addition towhen the vehicle overtakes a pedestrian.

Also, the above-described pattern may be drawn on the road surface onlyin a situation in which there is a markedly high probability of theoccurrence of a collision. Examples of such a situation in which thereis a markedly high probability of the occurrence of a collision include:(i) a situation in which the pedestrian operates an electronic devicesuch as a smartphone; (ii) a situation in which a pedestrian is detectedon a road known as a common site of traffic accidents. Such situationsmay be detected by means of an in-vehicle camera. Also, such situationsmay be detected based on information obtained from trafficinfrastructure such as traffic lights or the like.

Modification 24

Description has been made in the embodiment regarding an arrangement inwhich the variable light distribution lamp 110 irradiates a pattern tothe road surface 900 in front of the vehicle 906 with a light intensitythat is brighter than that of the low beam BML. However, the presentinvention is not restricted to such an arrangement. Also, the patternmay be irradiated with a light intensity that is dimmer than that of thelow beam BML.

Description has been made regarding the present invention with referenceto the embodiments using specific terms. However, the above-describedembodiments show only an aspect of the mechanisms and applications ofthe present invention. Rather, various modifications and various changesin the layout can be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe present invention defined in appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A lamp system comprising: a variable lightdistribution lamp structured to irradiate a beam having a variable lightintensity distribution to a road surface; and a controller structured tocontrol the variable light distribution lamp, to draw a pattern thatcorresponds to a predetermined event on the road surface in response toa start of the predetermined event, and to extinguish the pattern inresponse to an end of the predetermined event.
 2. The lamp systemaccording to claim 1, wherein, as the predetermined event, overtaking aleading vehicle is employed, and wherein the variable light distributionlamp draws a first pattern on a road surface in front of a vehicle overa predetermined first range defined with a traveling direction as alongitudinal direction thereof with a light intensity that is brighterthan a low beam.
 3. The lamp system according to claim 2, wherein thefirst range is generated such that it extends beyond a front edge of theleading vehicle.
 4. The lamp system according to claim 1, wherein, asthe predetermined event, a lane change is employed, and wherein thevariable light distribution lamp draws a second pattern on the roadsurface in front of the vehicle such that a front edge thereof extendsup to an inner side of an adjacent lane with a light intensity that isbrighter than that of a low beam.
 5. The lamp system according to claim1, wherein, as the predetermined event, entering an intersection isemployed, and wherein the variable light distribution lamp draws a thirdpattern on the road surface in front of the vehicle such that a frontedge thereof extends up to an inner side of an intersection with a lightintensity that is brighter than that of a low beam.
 6. The lamp systemaccording to claim 1, wherein, as the predetermined event, vehiclemerging in traffic congestion is employed, and wherein the variablelight distribution lamp draws a fourth pattern on the road surface infront of the vehicle such that a front edge thereof extends up to aninner side of a merging lane with a light intensity that is brighterthan that of a low beam.
 7. The lamp system according to claim 1,wherein, as the predetermined event, lane deviation is employed, andwherein the variable light distribution lamp draws a fifth patternincluding at least one from among two lines that indicate a vehiclewidth on the road surface in front of the vehicle with a light intensitythat is brighter than that of a low beam.
 8. The lamp system accordingto claim 1, wherein, as the predetermined event, approaching a leadingvehicle is employed, and wherein the variable light distribution lampdraws a sixth pattern on a road surface between the leading vehicle anda user's vehicle with a light intensity that is brighter than that of alow beam.
 9. The lamp system according to claim 1, wherein, as thepredetermined event, deviation from a minimum legal speed is employed,and wherein the variable light distribution lamp draws a seventh patternon a road surface in front of the vehicle with a light intensity that isbrighter than that of a low beam in order to prompt acceleration.
 10. Anautomotive lamp comprising a variable light distribution lamp structuredto irradiate a beam having a variable light intensity distribution to aroad surface, and wherein, when overtaking a leading vehicle, thevariable light distribution lamp draws a pattern on a road surface infront of a vehicle over a predetermined range with a traveling directionas a longitudinal direction thereof with a light intensity that isbrighter than that of a low beam.
 11. A lamp system comprising: avariable light distribution lamp structured to be capable of generatinga beam having a variable light intensity distribution; and a lightdistribution controller structured to control the variable lightdistribution lamp, wherein, upon detecting a pedestrian, the lightdistribution controller temporarily changes a light intensity of a partof the beam irradiated to a face of the pedestrian.
 12. The lamp systemaccording to claim 11, wherein, upon detecting the pedestrian, the lightdistribution controller draws a predetermined pattern on a road surface.13. The lamp system according to claim 12, wherein the pattern extendsfrom a vehicle mounting the lamp system toward the pedestrian or aposition in front of the pedestrian.
 14. The lamp system according toclaim 12, wherein drawing on the road surface is enabled when apredetermined condition has been satisfied.
 15. The lamp systemaccording to claim 14, wherein the predetermined condition is definedwith a vehicle speed as a parameter.
 16. The lamp system according toclaim 14, wherein the predetermined condition is defined with a distanceup to the pedestrian as a parameter.
 17. The lamp system according toclaim 11, wherein, when a plurality of pedestrians are detected, apredetermined number of pedestrians judged to involve a highest risk areeach selected as illumination targets.
 18. An automotive lamp comprisinga variable light distribution lamp structured to be capable ofgenerating a beam having a variable light intensity distribution,wherein, upon detecting a pedestrian, the automotive lamp temporarilychanges a light intensity of a part of the beam irradiated to a face ofthe pedestrian.
 19. The automotive lamp according to claim 18, wherein,upon detecting the pedestrian, the light distribution controller draws apredetermined pattern on a road surface.
 20. A lamp system comprising: afirst variable light distribution lamp provided on a front-left side ofa vehicle, and structured to irradiate a first beam having a variablelight intensity distribution to a road surface so as to draw a firstpattern; and a second variable light distribution lamp provided on afront-right side of the vehicle, and structured to irradiate a secondbeam having a variable light intensity distribution to the road surfaceso as to draw a second pattern, wherein the first pattern and the secondpattern respectively include a first figure and a second figure to besuperimposed on the road surface, and wherein there is an intentionaldifference between the first figure and the second figure drawn on theroad surface in a reference state.
 21. The lamp system according toclaim 20, wherein one from among the first figure and the second figureis drawn with an inset with respect to the other.
 22. The lamp systemaccording to claim 20, wherein one from among the first figure and thesecond figure is drawn with an offset with respect to the other.
 23. Thelamp system according to claim 21, wherein the first figure and thesecond figure are drawn with an inset amount or an offset amount in afront-rear direction that is larger than that in a left-right direction.24. The lamp system according to claim 20, wherein the first figure andthe second figure are drawn with different brightness levels.
 25. Thelamp system according to claim 20, wherein the first beam and the secondbeam are irradiated with different light intensities.
 26. A lamp systemcomprising: a variable light distribution lamp structured to irradiate abeam having a variable light intensity distribution to a road surface; alight distribution controller structured to control the variable lightdistribution lamp when a vehicle mounting the lamp system is traveling,and to draw a figure for driving assistance on the road surface usingthe beam, wherein, when a person who satisfies a predetermined conditionapproaches the vehicle while the vehicle is parked, the lightdistribution controller draws a predetermined pattern on a groundsurface using the beam.
 27. The lamp system according to claim 26,wherein the predetermined pattern is irradiated in a range between 1 to6 m in front of the vehicle.
 28. The lamp system according to claim 26,wherein the predetermined pattern is extinguished under a condition ofone from among unlocking a door of the vehicle, opening the door,closing the door, and the person being a predetermined distance or lessfrom the vehicle.
 29. The lamp system according to claim 26, wherein thepredetermined pattern is configured as a logo relating to the vehicle.30. The lamp system according to claim 26, wherein the predeterminedpattern can be specified by a user.
 31. An automotive lamp comprising avariable light distribution lamp structured to irradiate a beam having avariable light intensity distribution to a road surface, wherein thevariable light distribution lamp draws a pattern over a predeterminedrange in front of a vehicle with a traveling direction as a longitudinaldirection thereof with a light intensity that is brighter or dimmer thanthat of a low beam.
 32. The automotive lamp according to claim 31,wherein the pattern includes a plurality of figures arranged in thetraveling direction.
 33. The automotive lamp according to claim 32,wherein the pattern is drawn as an animation of the plurality of figuresthat slide in a direction away from the vehicle at the same speed. 34.The automotive lamp according to claim 33, wherein the plurality offigures are drawn such that they slide at a speed that is changedaccording to a distance up to a traffic participant in front of avehicle.
 35. The automotive lamp according to claim 31, wherein thepattern is drawn when a vehicle speed is equal to or smaller than apredetermined value.
 36. The automotive lamp according to claim 31,wherein the pattern is drawn in at least one from among: a case in whicha vehicle is traveling on a road having a width that is smaller than apredetermined value, a case in which a vehicle is traveling on a roadhaving no guardrail, and a case in which the vehicle is passing anoncoming vehicle.
 37. The automotive lamp according to claim 31, whereinthe predetermined range has a width that is substantially equal to orlarger than that of the vehicle.
 38. The automotive lamp according toclaim 37, wherein the pattern includes two lines that indicate thevehicle width, and wherein the two lines are drawn such that lengthsthereof extend in a traveling direction with time.
 39. The automotivelamp according to claim 37, wherein the pattern comprises: two linesthat indicate the vehicle width; and an animation figure drawn such thatit extends in a traveling direction with time or such that it moves inthe traveling direction with time.